Engage in the story of how DNA analysis is helping protect endangered wildlife. In this DNA gel electrophoresis lab experience, learners will develop a greater understanding of the scientific protocols and technical skills necessary to conduct this research. Upon completion of this lab, high school students are eligible for 3 hours of NYS lab time.
Assess the water quality of ESC’s aquatic habitats by using probeware to conduct a variety of tests. Learners will understand how these tests are utilized to monitor NYC’s water sources and how humans impact the overall quality of the health of water.
ESC offers two different partnership opportunities for high schools in our state-of-the-art Hydroponics Research Laboratory. Hydroponic technology allows plants to grow in a nutrient rich solution without soil. Through our partnership with Cornell University Cooperative Extension, students set up and maintain the NDFT (Nutrient Drip Flow Technique) hydroponic systems. Students will propagate seeds, continually monitor water chemistry, collect data on plant growth, and harvest and enjoy their bounty. Not only will students be fully immersed in the scientific aspect of hydroponics, they will have the opportunity to connect hydroponics to real-world business and marketing.Option A – Recommended for research classes, Environmental Science, and Living Environment classesDuring this program, groups of students will set-up, maintain, and complete a full growing cycle on a NDFT hydroponic unit. In small teams, students will conduct research based on a question of their choosing and report their findings. Students will explore the real-world use of hydroponics and its importance in green living.Option B – Recommended for research classes, AP Environmental Science, AP Biology and Living Environment Regents classesStudents will learn how theory and practice meet to support RAS aquaponic technology. During this program students maintain and monitor the aquaponic system while comparing aquaponically grown produce to hydroponically grown produce. Students will learn techniques for water quality analysis, data collection and presentation, maintenance of homeostasis within the system, recording fish growth, calculate feed percentages, complete a full growth cycle and harvest their bounty.Click here to register for a hydroponics or aquaponics program.